100 Scope Notes Top 10 Picture Books

A Fuse #8 Production asked, and I sneak in at the last minute with my reply. Such is my custom, friends (p.s. I’m going to start putting this phrase on t-shirts: it’s the “that’s how I roll” for the bookish set).

Way back at the beginning of the month, the previously mentioned Fuse hatched a grand scheme. She decided to enlist her readers to help compile a list of the top 100 picture books. Everyone was encouraged to send in their top 10, and the end results would be shared. I mulled over my picks for awhile, and I just kept coming back to these 10. Here they are:

Originally published in 1941, Itâ€™s a testament to the enduring appeal of Curious George that this title, and its multitude of subsequent books are still widely circulated, and familiar to young readers. I can see why. Kids can relate to Georgeâ€™s innocently mischievous behavior and his relationship with â€œThe Man With the Yellow Hatâ€, who acts as parental figure. In a format extended beyond the typical 32 page picture book standard, the simple text and humorous illustrations continue to draw readers in.

I must have a thing for bowls that duplicate stuff. Strega Nona in many ways mirrors the 4th title on this list, The Full Belly Bowl. But unlike Aylesworthâ€™s book, Strega Nona focuses on humor to get its point across. dePaola’s 1979 classic takes an original tale and makes it feel timeless – no small feat.

An absurdist masterpiece in both writing and illustration. Our hero goes through a lot in one day: being created, finding a home, avoiding consumption, and eventually welcoming his new role in life as a doughnut dog. Hilarious even after multiple readings with subtle themes of belonging, Arnie the Doughnut (published in 2003) has more personality in its publication page than some picture books have in total.

Look no further than the cover artwork to witness Van Allsburgâ€™s eerie, draftsman-like precision on full display. Jumanji (published in 1981) takes a story that could have turned out silly and crafts a hauntingly beautiful title through illustrations that speak volumes.

Willems wasnâ€™t the first picture book author to break down the â€œforth wallâ€ and have his characters speak directly to the reader, heâ€™s just proven to be the best at it. When Pigeon debuted in 2003 it became an immediate read aloud smash and reminded everyone that yes, books are entertainment â€“ and thatâ€™s a good thing.

Never has there been a more universally loved picture book. While other titles on this list may split audiences, Eric Carleâ€™s 1969 classic is bulletproof. Through its perfect story, wonderful pacing, and inventive illustration, this rep has been earned.

Some stories are best read alone, others reach their full potential when shared. Aylesworthâ€™s 1999 tale of an old man who receives a magical gift from a stranger falls squarely in the latter category. A read aloud champion that pulls readers into the story, making them wonder what they would do with a bowl that can duplicate whatever is put inside it â€“ including money.

There is no finer example of unbridled imagination than Wiesnerâ€™s 2006 wordless story about a boy who finds amazing things inside old camera washed up on a beach. As the storyline unfolds, the reader discovers that undersea life may be much more sophisticated (and whimsical) than previously thought. A cyclical ending shows the camera washed up again, ready for the next passerby to continue the story.

Books set during Christmas are akin to songs on top 40 radio â€“ tons of people enjoy them, but critics donâ€™t give them much credit. Donâ€™t get it twisted: Seussâ€™ 1957 Yule time tale deserves all the credit it can get, if for no other reason than the creation of The Grinch, one of the most indelible characters in picture book history.

The evolution of picture books can be broken down into two time periods: Pre-Wild Things and Post-Wild Things. Sendakâ€™s 1963 book was that instrumental in ushering in the modern age of picture books. While tackling themes of anger and loneliness, Sendak created one of the few picture books that still seems fresh after decades in print.

Travis Jonker is an elementary school librarian in Michigan. He writes reviews (and the occasional article or two) for School Library Journal and is a member of the 2014 Caldecott committee. You can email Travis at scopenotes@gmail.com, or follow him on Twitter: @100scopenotes.

Comments

Nice list. I like your inclusion of Curious George. I think he is underrated in many ways (maybe due to too many proliferations of the concept?)- you’re right though- such a character that kids can identify with. I adore Full Belly Bowl as well! My kids and I love rowdier books on the whole, but they will sit through that book, reading after reading, entranced. It’s magical! And a lovely pairing of text and art. Wendy Halperin is coming to their school next month and they are SO excited to meet her :)

Other than the Pigeon book, we didn’t intersect on any books (I went with Grumpy Ladybug for my Carle book for my own reasons), but I love your choices. Many reflect your off-beat style – as is your custom.

Boni, I’m pretty pumped to discover that there are other Full Belly Bowl lovers out there. Such a great book! Very cool that Wendy Halprin is coming to your kids school soon – the author/illustrator visits are so much fun – I’m sure they will love it.

About 100 Scope Notes

Children's literature news, reviews and assorted school librarian oddities. Combine one part kid's books, one part school librarianship, a splash of absurdity and you get 100 Scope Notes.

Travis Jonker is an elementary school librarian in Michigan. He writes reviews (and the occasional article or two) for School Library Journal and is a member of the 2014 Caldecott committee. You can email Travis at scopenotes@gmail.com. He's also on...